Implants

Are Implants Right for Me?

If you are self-conscious because you have missing teeth, wear dentures that are uncomfortable, or don’t want to have good tooth structure removed to make a bridge, talk to your Las Vegas cosmetic dentist to see if implants are an option for you.

Implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth and are designed to blend in with your other teeth. They are an excellent long-term option for restoring your smile. In fact, the development and use of implants is one of the biggest advances in dentistry in the past 40 years. Implants are made up of titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body. They are posts that are surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw where they function as a sturdy anchor for replacement teeth.

3 Steps to Implants

Most patients find that a implant is secure, stable and a good replacement for their own tooth. There are generally three phases to getting an implant:

First, the dentist surgically places the implant into the jawbone. Your dentist may recommend a diet of soft foods, cold foods and warm soup during the healing process.

Next, the bone around the implant heals in a process called osseointegration. What makes an implant so strong is that the bone actually grows around it and holds it in place. Osseointegration means “combines with the bone,” and is a process that takes time. Some patients may need to wait until the implant is completely integrated, sometimes up to several months, before replacement teeth can be attached to the implant. Other patients can have the implants and replacement teeth placed all in one visit.

Finally, it’s time for the placement of the artificial tooth/teeth. For a single-tooth implant, your dentist will customize for you a new tooth, called a crown. The crown will be based on size, shape, color and fit and will be designed to blend in with your other teeth. If you are replacing more than a single tooth, custom-made bridges or dentures will be made to fit your mouth and your implants. (Note: The replacement teeth will take some time to make. In the meantime, your dentist may give you a temporary crown, bridge or denture to help you eat and speak normally until the permanent replacement is ready.)

Let’s Get Started

If you are interested in implants, it’s a good idea to first discuss it carefully with your dentist. If you are in good general health, this treatment may be an option for you. In fact, your health is more of a factor than your age. You may need to be medically evaluated by a physician before any implant surgery is scheduled. We offer free implant consultations at any of our locations!